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Caption

Illustration of septal cirrhosis of the liver. Cirrhosis is a liver disease resulting in chronic damage to liver cells. Internal scarring divides the normal structure of the liver into nodules (in background diagram). Septa of fibrous scar tissue create islands of cells. Enlarged area shows heavy fat deposits (yellow) within these liver nodules. Because these nodules are inadequately supplied with blood, liver function is gradually impaired and toxic substances in the blood are no longer effectively removed. Heavy alcohol consumption is the most common cause of cirrhosis; a reduction in alcohol consumption can substantially improve the symptoms. Hepatitis can also lead to cirrhosis.